Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Born and raised outside of Banner Elk, NC, I attended Appalachian State University and taught 6th and 7th grade in public, Title One schools for six years. My wife Bailey and I moved to Asheville in August 2020. I love all things "mountains" and I am excited to help support the communities within the mountains I love.
Give us a glimpse into your role at United Way. How do you help us fulfill our mission? What are you most excited about accomplishing as a team?
As the community school coordinator at Enka Middle, it is my mission to connect the school (students, families, and staff!) with the resources, opportunities, and encouragement that they need to be successful. I am most excited to help the United Way team support students from kindergarten to graduating as seniors with as many opportunities as possible.
What’s your favorite thing about our community?
All of Asheville/Buncombe County's layers. I truly believe the deeper you dive, the more you will find in this community. Someone, somewhere, is ALWAYS trying to help.
What would we find you doing when you aren’t at work?
Home improvement projects with my wife Bailey, riding bikes (hopefully every day), running when the weather is too bad for biking, and trying to keep up with our garden!
Do you have any podcast, book, music, or movie recommendations?
Books: Let My People Go Surfing by Yvon Chouinard, and anything by Terry Roberts (fabulous WNC historical fiction)
Music: Khruangbin
Tell us about any committees or associations you are a part of and/or awards/recognitions you’ve received.
-I have served on the board of directors of my neighborhood HOA since the winter of 2021. In that time, we've replaced the roofs of 15 homes and have addressed several emergency situations without ever having to assess any owners for those costs!
-I also volunteer with Blue Ridge Public Radio on the community advisory board in an effort to make BPR more accessible and relevant to all of its listeners.
